Oobleck sensory recipe
A magical, squishy mix that acts like a solid when squeezed and a liquid when left alone. It's easy to make, surprisingly calming, versatile and full of weird, wonderful science.
If you’ve ever been put off by messy play because it sounds like more effort than fun - this one might just convert you. Oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid, meaning it behaves like a solid under pressure but drips like a liquid when you let it go. It’s oddly mesmerising for both kids and grownups, and can spark a whole range of sensory, science, and imaginative play.
The best part? It’s only two ingredients: cornflour and water. No complicated recipes or expensive supplies - just some oozy fun...
Materials
Prep / make
Pour the cornflour into a bowl or tray, then slowly add water. Mix with hands or a spoon until it reaches a gloopy but firm consistency. Add food colouring if desired. That’s it!
Play
Step 1:
Explore the texture - squeeze it into a hard texture, relax and let it drip, press it into shapes. Talk about how it feels and acts - “Does it feel more like a liquid or a solid?”
Step 2:
To clean it - wipe or wash off hands and surfaces with water - it comes off easily!
NB: don’t pour it all down the sink as it can clog drains!
Let leftover oobleck dry out for a second round of play the next day (see play extensions below), then scrape and bin / vacuum up any leftovers.
Extend
Mini dig site: Bury small toys or trinkets (or dino "fossils") before it dries and use tools to dig them out the next day.
Powder play: Once it’s dried and crushed, it becomes soft and sandy. Pulverise any crumbs with your fingers for another satisfying sensory experience. Then play with it like sand - making mounds, tracing shapes - your imagination's the limit!
Small world play: Add small animals or figurines and create a lava pool, swamp, or enchanted slime bog. Storytelling + sensory = win!
